The First World War, also known as World War I, involved extensive trench warfare along the Western Front. From 1914 to 1918, soldiers dug deep trenches that became a defining feature of the conflict, particularly in battles such as the Somme and Verdun. This form of warfare resulted in horrific living conditions and massive casualties, as soldiers faced stalemated frontlines and limited advances. The trenches offered some protection from enemy fire but also led to new tactics and technologies, highlighting the brutal nature of warfare during this period.